HMX Cheese vs. Outemu Maple Leaf
An in-depth look at the HMX Cheese and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the HMX Cheese and the Outemu Maple Leaf. The HMX Cheese is a linear switch that is loved for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience. With a satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature, these ultra-light switches stand out for being lighter than 90% of all switches. On the other hand, the Outemu Maple Leaf is a tactile switch that offers a different typing experience. While not as well-known for specific qualities, tactile switches are generally preferred by those who enjoy feeling a slight bump when pressing down on the keys. Each switch type has its own advantages, and choosing between them will depend on personal preference and typing style. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
pom
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the HMX Cheese and the Outemu Maple Leaf use nylon as their top and bottom housing material, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on these switches. The relatively softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound overall. This similarity in housing material ensures that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel when using either of these switches.
However, the HMX Cheese and the Outemu Maple Leaf may differ in terms of other housing materials or design elements that could impact the overall typing experience. For example, the shape or thickness of the housings, as well as any added features like sound dampening materials or structures, could result in distinct differences between the two switches. These additional factors could affect the sound, feel, and overall performance of the switches, giving users a unique typing experience with each switch.
While the housing material of nylon is a common feature in both the HMX Cheese and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches, the differences in other components or design aspects may lead to varying experiences when typing on these switches. Whether it be differences in sound, feel, or other performance metrics, users may find that one switch better suits their preferences based on these distinct characteristics. Ultimately, while the nylon housing material contributes to a similar sound profile in both switches, the overall typing experience may vary based on the specific design elements of each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, it is evident that the Cheese is lighter in both aspects. The Cheese requires 43 grams of force to actuate and 46 grams to bottom out, making it a lighter option overall. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf is heavier, with an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Cheese, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. Meanwhile, the Maple Leaf provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier forces, appealing to those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The HMX Cheese linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular among gamers for faster response times. Choosing between the two would depend on personal preference - if you prefer a more responsive feel, the Cheese switch with the slightly longer travel distance may be the better choice. However, if you find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt, the Maple Leaf switch with a slightly shorter travel distance could be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches offer relatively similar travel distances and would likely provide comparable results in terms of keypress feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Cheese has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cheese for $3.79.
The Outemu Maple Leaf comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
When it comes to sound, the HMX Cheese linear switch offers a satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature that truly sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch's sound profile is not well known, making it harder to compare the two in this aspect. However, it is important to consider that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard itself and the keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the HMX Cheese switch is praised for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, providing users with a unique and enjoyable feel while typing. Unfortunately, the feel of the Outemu Maple Leaf switch remains unknown, making it challenging to provide a direct comparison between the two switches in this category. It's crucial to keep in mind that the feel of a switch can greatly impact the overall typing experience, so it's essential to choose a switch that aligns with your preferences.
In conclusion, while the HMX Cheese linear switch excels in both sound and feel categories with its smoothness and satisfying sound profile, the information available about the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch is limited. If you are looking for a switch that offers a light and satisfying typing experience with a unique sound profile, the HMX Cheese switch may be the way to go. However, if you are interested in trying something new and different, the Outemu Maple Leaf switch could provide you with a fresh typing experience, but be prepared for the unknown aspects of its sound and feel. Ultimately, the best way to determine which switch is right for you is to try them out for yourself and see which one aligns best with your typing preferences.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when it comes to choosing between the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, it all comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a light switch with a smooth and easy typing experience and a satisfying sound profile, then the HMX Cheese linear switch would be the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a slightly more tactile feel and a higher bottom out force, then the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch may be more suitable for you. Consider how you like your switches to feel and sound, and choose accordingly. Happy typing!
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